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INVERNESS, Scotland, October 5, 2005 (Refocus
Weekly)
A local political authority in Scotland will
consult local communities on a plan to develop renewable energy
resources.
Highland Council developed its own policy for wind and wave power
schemes after it became frustrated by the failure of the Scottish
Executive to issue guidelines on projects. The local politicians
hope the strategy will allow applications to be accelerated,
resulting in greater employment opportunities and economic benefits
for their communities.
A Renewable Energy Working Group developed a draft strategy and
planning guidelines to guide developers on a range of issues
governing the industry, and Council will start an eleven-week
consultation on October 28, which will include six public meetings
across the Highlands. A report on the process will be submitted to
Council early next year.
“In the absence of clear guidance from the Scottish Executive, we
have taken a lead in Scotland in dedicating the time, effort and
resources towards framing a comprehensive renewable energy policy
for the Highlands,” says councillor Sandy Park, chair of the
planning and development committee. “I have no doubt that the work
we are undertaking will provide a model for other areas to follow.”
“Our strategy covers the nature, location and scale of future
developments; the promotion of economic development potential;
social and environmental impacts and infrastructure implications,”
he adds. “The strategy will inform future decisions, influence
policy makers and promote a positive Highland vision, while
maximizing the gain and minimizing the impact of developments.”
The strategy involves onshore and offshore wind, as well as hydro,
wave, tidal and biomass technologies. It identifies 15 potential
energy sources across the Highland region for possible development,
and recognizes the importance of conservation and the economic
benefits of tourism to the area.
The first windfarm in the Highlands was the Novar facility in
Evanton, which started in 1997. Developers currently are expressing
interest in 40 sites.
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